RWC 2015 launches ball

2 September 2013 11:50am

By Graeme Gillespie

With two years to go until the Rugby World Cup 2015 brings eight games to Cardiff, Gilbert Rugby has launched the design of the official match ball that will play its part in every pass, kick and try at the home of Welsh sport.

With the 2011 design proving a hit for fans and retailers around the world, the striking and innovative England 2015 ball artwork has been designed with performance and players in mind, while taking inspiration from the Modern Classic tournament look and feel that will be synonymous with the world's third-largest sports event.

Player consultation has been central to the design details that will enhance the showcasing of skills. Special emphasis has been given to ensuring that contrasting colours appear on the ends of the ball to enhance visibility for passing. Bold colours along the seams provide kickers with strong visual references. The result is a unique and special ball with strong visual impact.

The design also features the official tournament social media hashtag #RWC2015, highlighting the importance of social media for event owners and associated brands.

Rugby World Cup 2015 replica balls will be available from September 23 through the official Rugby World Cup 2015 online shop at www.rwcshop.com and in store via official outlets around the world.

Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: "Gilbert is a brand that is synonymous with Rugby World Cup, having supplied balls for all tournaments since 1995. We are delighted to be launching an official Rugby World Cup 2015 match ball design that does not just look great, but will assist and enhance player performance through Gilbert's expertise and unparalleled attention to detail."

A world leader in match ball innovation and development in international Rugby for more than a century, the UK-based firm will supply the match, training and replica balls for Rugby's global showcase event. Attention now turns to the technical development of the Rugby World Cup 2015 official match ball.

Wales will play two pool matches at the Millennium Stadium which is the only venue outside England scheduled to host the Rugby World Cup 2015 tournament.

JOIN THE FRONT ROW
For all the latest Rugby World Cup 2015 news and information, including details on tickets and volunteering, join The Front Row - and receive the official tournament newsletter.
Sign up at www.rugbyworldcup.com/frontrow

A proud Japan head coach Jamie Joseph praises his players who so nearly pulled off a shock victory against Wales at the Principality Stadium where his side's fast tempo ensured the game wasn't decided until the dying seconds.

Head coach Rob Howley explains the changes he has made to the Wales squad which faces Argentina on Saturday while captain Gethin Jenkins and returning back row Sam Warburton are determined the players will 'produce a performance they are proud of'

Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards and second row Bradley Davies react to Saturday's disappointing defeat to Australia on Saturday but assure Welsh fans they indend to bounce back this weekend against Argentina.

Flanker Justin Tipuric reveals to WRU TV that he is looking forward to playing alongside Ross Moriarty and Dan Lydiate in what is an unfamiliar back row combination as Wales look to take on Australia at Principality Stadium on Saturday.

Australia captain Stephen Moore and key playmaker Bernard Foley are expecting a 'fiery clash' against Wales on Saturday at Principality Stadium where the Wallabies will be aiming to launch their Grand Slam attempt with victory.

Wales and Ospreys back row James King, who came through the North Wales age grade system, nominated North Wales Regional Community Rugby Manager Marc Roberts, in the WRU's 'Diolch' initiative where squad players thanked those who played a part in their rise to the top.

The last time Wales played against Japan they lost. Last year, at the Rugby World Cup, an Eddie Jones inspired Japanese team beat South Africa, and last weekend a new look team went to Georgia and ended their eight match unbeaten run.